Minister Gu said that the Gaoshu Township Library marks the first venue to be completed and inaugurated among the library construction and renovation projects of Taiwan’s Hakka villages. In the future, libraries will be completed and successively open in Changzhi, Neipu, Xinpi, and Wanluan Townships, enhancing the overall quality and service capability of public library facilities across the Liugdui region.
Minister Gu further pointed out that the refurbished library not only provides an excellent reading environment but can also fulfill a variety of roles for exchange, learning, and long-term care, allowing people of all ages to use the space without worries. In particular, the library’s Hakka literature book collection and Hakka storytelling activities can help promote language transmission and strengthen local culture, so the library becomes an essential site for people’s daily lives.
Gaoshu Township Library’s renovation project centers around the Hakka Study Hall, which combines Hakka language, culture, and community needs. Not only does it provide an excellent reading space, but it also serves as a versatile space for local study, leisure, and cultural transmission. The total project cost totaled NT$28.5 million, with 90% (NT$25.65 million) funded by HAC. The overall space includes a reading area, children’s area, family reading area, versatile exhibition and handcrafts space, and more. The old building was turned into a new venue that exudes Hakka style and community spirit, aiming to empower Gaoshu residents with a base for daily learning.
Many other activities were arranged for the ceremony, including Watermelon Teacher’s Sensory Integration Game, Hakka Language Storytelling, Hakka arts performances, library tours, DIY activities, and Hakka Learning with Movies. In addition to celebrating the reopening of the library, the interactions enabled Hakka language and culture to come closer to people’s hearts.